A History of Hindu Political Theories from the Earliest Times to the End of the First Quarter of the Seventeenth Century A.D. c12.s2.12

c12.s2.12

Thus politics or the art of government in Śukra's system is not an independent branch of study, but is merged in a science of general morals.³ What, then, is the use of this comprehensive science, especially in comparison with the sister sciences. As the rules of kingly policy are conceived to be the core of the Nītiśāstra, it follows that its primary use must be for the king. On this point Śukra expresses himself quite clearly. Since the Nītiśāstra, he says at the beginning of his book, is the root of virtue, wealth and desire, and bestows salvation, it should be constantly studied with care by the king; through its knowledge kings and others conquer their foes, and gratify their subjects. Further on the author observes that the primary duty of the king (*viz.* the protection of the subjects and the chastisement of the wicked) is impossible without Nīti: indeed, the neglect to follow Nīti is the king's principal loophole for attack, and increases his enemies and diminishes his strength. The king who gives up Nīti and becomes self-willed (svatantra) suffers pain.∗ The author continues in the same strain through the following lines, but these do not add anything to the argument.